2D Maps are two-dimensional
images that are typically mapped onto the surface of geometric objects,
or used as environment maps to create a background for the scene.
The simplest 2D maps are bitmaps; other kinds of 2D maps are generated procedurally.

A bitmap is an
image produced by a fixed matrix of colored pixels, like a mosaic.
Bitmaps are useful for creating many kinds of materials, from wood
grains and wall surfaces to skin and feathers. You can also use
an animation or video file instead of a bitmap to create an animated
material.

The Checker map applies
a two-color checkerboard pattern to the material. The default checker
map is a pattern of black and white squares. Checker maps are 2D
procedural maps. The component checkers can be either colors or
maps.

With the Combustion
map, you can create maps interactively using the Autodesk Combustion
software and 3ds Max at the same time. As you use Combustion
to paint on a bitmap, the material updates automatically in the
Material Editor and in shaded viewports.

Gradient Ramp is a 2D
map similar to the Gradient map. It shades from one color to another.
In this map, however, you can specify any number of colors or maps
for the gradient. There are a variety of controls, making highly
customized gradients possible. Almost any parameter of Gradient
Ramp can be animated.

Swirl is a 2D procedural
map that generates patterns similar to the swirls in two-flavor
ice creams. Like other two-color maps, either color can be replaced
with other maps, so it’s possible to swirl marble with wood, for
example.

Using the Tiles procedural
map, you can create brick or stacked tiling of colors or material
mappings. There are commonly defined architectural brick patterns
available, or you can design custom patterns.